UNBC athletics got a huge win on Thursday, and none of its teams were even in action.
At the Northern Sport Centre on Thursday morning, Integris Credit Union pledged a $75,000 donation to the university's athletics program. The money -- the largest single corporate donation in program history -- will be dished out in the next three years and will help UNBC coaches attract athletes to their teams and keep them in uniform.
"This pledge from Integris allows our coaches to offer sustainable awards for the next three years and aid us in funding our exhibition expenses," said athletics director Loralyn Murdoch. "We strive to recruit and retain the best student-athletes and Integris's contribution will definitely help us. The commitment by the student-athletes to play at this level is tremendous and they also value the support."
UNBC has basketball and soccer teams (men's and women's) that compete in the Canada West conference of Canadian Interuniversity Sport.
Thanks to the donation, UNBC will create four Integris-named awards valued at $2,000 each. These awards -- aimed at recruiting and retaining athletes -- will be handed out each year for three years. As well, funds will be used to cover exhibition expenses and will be doled out in the form of other awards for student-athlete tuition.
Currently, about one in five UNBC students receive scholarships, bursaries or other awards.
Dan Wingham, manager of strategic partnerships and business development at Integris, was present for Thursday's announcement.
"Integris is thrilled to make another important investment in our university," he said.
"This ensures UNBC is better able to recruit top talent to the region and continue to provide exciting experiences for T-wolves fans. This partnership is a remarkable opportunity for Integris members and staff to make a difference in the lives of student-athletes and our T-Wolves fans here in the region."
